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MLS Columbus Crew SC

Preseason Match 3: Crew 1 - Union 0

February 23, 2014 - Major League Soccer (MLS)
Columbus Crew SC News Release


ORLANDO, FLA. - It took a one-hour rain relay and nearly 90 minutes of action, but the Columbus Crew staved off the Philadelphia Union through an 87th-minute penalty kick from Designated Player Federico Higuain. The win is the Black & Gold's third consecutive preseason victory under Sporting Director and Head Coach Gregg Berhalter, and the second in Group A play in the 2014 Disney Pro Soccer Classic following Wednesday's triumph over Toronto FC.

The Crew win -  coupled with tonight's Group A draw between Toronto and Orlando City - ensures that the Black & Gold will play in the tournament's championship match for the second consecutive year against the Group B victor. 

Only days after flying across the globe to join his new teammates, recently acquired centerback Giancarlo Gonzales put in a solid first performance for Berhalter's side, helping the Crew to a cleansheet victory. Goalkeeper Steve Clark was called into action early and often, producing a series of stops to keep his side in the match, and Higuain provided the final offensive spark. The Argentine converted from the spot following an Amobi Okugo foul on Ryan Finley inside Philadelphia's area. 

The Crew closes out group play in the Disney Pro Soccer Classic on Wednesday, February 26 against Orlando City, followed by the title game on Saturday, March 1 before returning to Columbus. 

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